Chapter 1. Strawberry Rhubarb Fizz

                                    

                                          
TAYLOR'S POV
Now I'm not usually one for parties, as a matter of fact, I can't even remember the last party I went to. Probably during my Reputation release party. But even then, it was only a few people, more like a small gathering. This party, however, I am glad that I went to. The Grammy's after-parties never really hit the spot, but today just feels different. Sure it could be the vodka-Coke in my hands. But yes, maybe it mostly has something to do with the gorgeous woman sitting at the bar by herself. I honestly have no idea if she's here with someone or not, but my guess is not. Admittedly, I have been watching her for almost 30 minutes since I've been here and I've yet to see someone approach her. Okay, maybe that's borderline stalker, but something about her is honestly so intriguing.
I know a lot of skeevy men say to women "What's a pretty girl like you doing here all by yourself?" But I genuinely wanna know, why is she by herself? Maybe I should ask her? Should I approach her? No, Taylor, that's the vodka talking. But we could be friends? Besides, I've never seen her before or even know who she is, it's okay for me to ask right? That won't look weird. Like a girl talking to a girl? Lord knows I've had feelings for one in the past, and the internet no doubt had something to say about that. But I think I'm just too repulsed by men that I wish I played for the other team instead of working through my shit with the guys that have been interested in me. I am straight, but I do understand why men are in awe of women.
Fuck it, I'm gonna talk to her. 
I feel my legs carry me over to the end of the bar where she's sitting alone. There are two stools available; one on her left and one on her right. I decide to sit on her right side, mainly because her body language is more open in that direction anyway, might as well make it easier for myself if I am gonna do this. Oh my god, Taylor, stop. This is a bad idea! Fuck, my mind is telling me one thing, but my body is disobeying me. I know I'm going to be thankful for that later, I hope.
I set my glass on the bar as I sit on the stool next to her. 
Think of something to say, Taylor! 
I can feel my heart beating fast as I take in the close proximity between us and her warm vanilla perfume. Is it vanilla? It's sort of musky...not too masculine but not feminine either and she smells so good. Maybe I should ask her about that. I subtly turn my head to my left and tuck my hair behind my ear as I take a whiff of her intoxicating scent. Fuck, what is she wearing? Am I being weird? Jesus Taylor, say something!!
"Controversial Opinion, but 'Dress' is your best song on the Reputation album." the gorgeous woman next to me suddenly says with a subtle smirk on her face as she turns off her phone and faces me a little more.
I immediately blush. Thank god she said something! Although I really do regret not saying anything first. Is she a fan? Or did she just google that? Most people only know my singles but this one isn't. I am reading too much into this, aren't I?
"Of course, runner up is 'Don't Blame Me' but 'So It Goes' used to be my favorite" she continues.
"Used to be?" I question, taking a sip of my drink and noticing she doesn't have one, making me furrow my eyebrows a little.
"I definitely overplayed that song too many times. I'm honestly responsible for at least 2 billion streams of that album." She jokes, making me chuckle.
"In all seriousness, I do think Reputation was your best work. I think it was such a statement piece. I do believe you gained a new following when you released it." She reassures, offering a warm smile.